It happens in an instant. A sticky piece of bubble gum meets a strand of hair, and suddenly you’re facing a gooey, tangled mess. Before you panic and reach for the scissors, take a deep breath. Getting gum out of hair is a common problem with several simple, effective solutions that can save both your hair and your sanity.
The key is to remain calm and avoid pulling at the gum, which can spread it and make the situation much worse. With a little patience and the right technique, you can remove the gum without cutting your hair.
The Power of Peanut Butter or Oil
One of the most popular and effective methods involves using an oily or fatty substance. Smooth peanut butter (creamy works best), mayonnaise, or common cooking oils like olive or coconut oil are excellent choices. The oil works to break down the gum’s sticky bonds. Simply coat the gum-covered hair generously with your chosen product. Use your fingers to gently work the oil into the gum, and you’ll notice it start to loosen its grip. After a few minutes, you should be able to slide the gum right off the hair strands.
Using Ice to Freeze the Gum
If you prefer a less messy approach, the ice method is a great alternative. Take an ice cube or a small zip-top bag filled with ice and hold it directly against the gum wad. You want to make the gum as cold and hard as possible. This process might take a few minutes. Once the gum is frozen solid, it becomes brittle and much less sticky. At this point, you can use your fingers to carefully crack and crumble the gum away from the hair. This method is particularly useful for large globs of gum.
Gentle Steps for a Tangle-Free Result
No matter which method you choose, a gentle touch is essential. After you’ve removed the bulk of the gum, you will likely have some residual stickiness. This is the perfect time to wash the affected area with your regular shampoo. The shampoo will help remove the oily residue from the peanut butter or oil method, and it will also ensure any last bits of gum are washed away. Follow with conditioner to help smooth the hair cuticle and detangle any knots that may have formed during the process.
With these simple tricks in your back pocket, a bubble gum mishap doesn’t have to end in a haircut. A little household product and some patience are all you need to resolve the sticky situation quickly and easily.